TRV
Proverbs 14:12
Bible Versions
¶ There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof [are] the ways of death.
There can be a way which seems right to a person, but at its end are the ways of death.
There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.
There is a way which seemeth right unto a man; But the end thereof are the ways of death.
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Proverbs 16:25
¶ There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof [are] the ways of death. -
Matthew 7:13
Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide [is] the gate, and broad [is] the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: -
Matthew 7:14
Because strait [is] the gate, and narrow [is] the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. -
Proverbs 12:15
¶ The way of a fool [is] right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel [is] wise. -
Galatians 6:3
For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself. -
Romans 6:21
What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things [is] death. -
Luke 13:24
Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.
Proverbs 14:12 (KJV) delivers a profound warning about the deceptive nature of human judgment and the fatal consequences of following a path that appears correct but is fundamentally flawed. This verse serves as a critical reminder that appearances can be misleading, especially when it comes to moral and spiritual choices.
Context of Proverbs 14:12
The book of Proverbs is a collection of ancient wisdom literature, primarily attributed to King Solomon, designed to impart practical wisdom for daily living rooted in the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 1:7). It often presents stark contrasts between wisdom and folly, righteousness and wickedness, and their respective outcomes. Within this framework, Proverbs 14:12 highlights the danger of relying solely on one's own perception of "right," contrasting human intuition with divine truth.
Key Themes and Messages
Linguistic Insights
The Hebrew word for "way" is derekh (דֶּרֶךְ), which refers to a road, a journey, or a course of life and conduct. The phrase "seemeth right" comes from the Hebrew yashar (יָשָׁר), meaning straight, upright, or pleasing. Here, it suggests an appearance of correctness or integrity that is ultimately false or deceptive. The outcome, "death" (mavet, מָוֶת), in the context of Proverbs, often extends beyond mere physical death to encompass spiritual and existential ruin, a state of separation from life and blessing found in God.
Related Scriptures
This warning is so crucial that it is almost identically repeated in Proverbs 16:25, emphasizing its importance. The concept that the human heart can be misleading is echoed in Jeremiah 17:9, which states, "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked." Jesus also spoke about the existence of paths that appear appealing but lead to destruction, contrasting them with the narrow way that leads to life (Matthew 7:14).
Practical Application
Proverbs 14:12 challenges us to critically evaluate our choices, beliefs, and life paths. It encourages humility, reminding us that our internal compass can be flawed. To avoid "the ways of death," we must:
This verse is a timeless call to align our lives with God's truth, ensuring that our path truly leads to life, not death.